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J A P A N
Travel Trade News
August 2026
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GREEN×EXPO 2027: Japan’s International Horticultural Expo Coming to Yokohama |
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GREEN×EXPO 2027 (International Horticultural Expo 2027 Yokohama, Japan) will be held in Yokohama from 19 March to 26 September 2027. The Expo will provide a unique opportunity for visitors to experience the connections between nature, sustainability, food, culture, and future lifestyles. Held under the theme “Scenery of the Future for Happiness,” GREEN×EXPO 2027 will showcase how flowers, greenery, agriculture, and nature-based initiatives can contribute to a more sustainable and prosperous future. The Expo will feature a diverse range of attractions, including international pavilions, large-scale floral displays, cultural experiences, innovative green technologies, and interactive programmes for visitors of all ages. As an A1-class Expo, the highest category of international horticultural exhibitions, GREEN×EXPO 2027 is expected to be one of Japan’s most significant events of 2027. In addition, its convenient location makes it easy to combine with other destinations, creating an attractive addition to Japan travel programmes. We encourage travel trade partners to take advantage of this exciting opportunity. For further information, please visit the official website.
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Aero Toyota Introduces the New “Lexus Helicopter” Experience |
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Aero Toyota is proud to announce the launch of Japan’s first VVIP-configured helicopter, the AW169, scheduled to commence operations this August. Meticulously crafted to the highest standards, both the exterior and interior are fully bespoke, reflecting an uncompromising commitment to precision and elegance. The aircraft’s striking “Sunrise Copper” livery draws inspiration from Japan’s iconic dawn, while the cabin is enveloped entirely in fine leather, extending to the ceiling, and subtly adorned with elements that evoke the poetic beauty of Japan’s landscapes. This exceptional aircraft will be operated as a “Lexus Helicopter” by Aero Toyota, a company with over 70 years of aviation experience in Japan’s skies. With twin engines and a two-pilot system, the AW169 delivers uncompromising safety alongside refined comfort at every stage of the journey. Though compact in size, Japan offers remarkable regional diversity and cultural richness. We invite discerning travellers to experience this depth from an unparalleled perspective, gracefully and efficiently, by helicopter. Please read the latest press release here. For further information, please contact Aero Toyota.
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PASMO: A Simple Way for Visitors to Travel Around Japan |
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For clients planning an independent trip to Japan, TOURIST PASMO offers one of the simplest and most convenient ways to travel around the country. Designed specifically for international visitors, this rechargeable IC card can be used on trains, underground networks and buses across much of Japan, removing the need to purchase individual tickets for each journey. In addition to public transport, TOURIST PASMO can be used for cashless payments at convenience stores, vending machines and a wide range of retailers, making day-to-day travel even more convenient. Available at both Haneda and Narita airports, the card is valid for 28 days from the date of purchase. Unlike regular transport cards, TOURIST PASMO does not require a deposit, and visitors can take it home as a souvenir at the end of their trip. For travel professionals, TOURIST PASMO is an excellent recommendation for FIT clients looking for a simple, seamless and stress-free way to explore Japan, from the bright lights of Tokyo to destinations further afield. For more information, please click here.
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Step Into Tradition: Japan’s Most Captivating October Festivals |
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Autumn festivals in Japan have long celebrated the harvest and the prosperity of local communities. Many traditions date back centuries and remain an important part of regional life today. With colourful processions, ornate floats and traditional performances, these festivals offer a unique glimpse into Japan's cultural heritage, enhanced by the beauty of the autumn season. While famous events such as the Takayama Autumn Festival, Kyoto's Jidai Matsuri and Kurama Fire Festival attract many visitors, October also brings a variety of lesser-known festivals that offer a more local and authentic experience. Here are a few worth considering.
Dates: 9-11 October. Held in the historic town of Sawara, this traditional festival features magnificent floats adorned with towering decorative figures. The floats parade through beautifully preserved Edo-period streets, creating a unique blend of history and local culture. As evening falls, lantern-lit floats add a magical atmosphere to the celebrations. The festival's float tradition is recognised as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Dates: 10-11 October. Kanuma Autumn Festival is famous for its ornate festival floats, showcasing exquisite wood carvings and traditional craftsmanship. The festival's most exciting event is the evening
buttsuke, when several floats gather and compete through lively musical performances. The combination of impressive floats, traditional music and community spirit creates a vibrant atmosphere. The float tradition is recognised as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage.
Dates: 23-25 October (Float Procession on 25 October). With a history spanning more than 400 years, the Kameoka Festival is often known as the "Gion Festival of Tanba." Elegant festival floats make their way through the former castle town, accompanied by traditional music and local festivities. The event offers a more intimate and authentic festival experience than many of Kyoto's larger celebrations. Its float tradition is recognised as part of UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage. |
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Japan's Luxury Hotel Pipeline: New Openings to Watch |
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DRINK JAPAN 2026: Free Admission for Travel Trade Professionals |
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DRINK JAPAN is the UK's largest promotional event showcasing the rich variety of Japanese drinks, food and culture, featuring sake, shochu, awamori, whisky, beer, tea and much more. The event will take place on 25-26 September 2026 at Lindley Hall, Westminster, London. Visitors can enjoy complimentary tastings of Japanese food and beverages, attend free masterclasses on sake, shochu, awamori and Japanese tea, meet awamori producers visiting from Okinawa, explore Japanese food and beverage products presented by JETRO, purchase authentic Japanese cuisine, and experience live Japanese entertainment, including traditional taiko drumming.Travel trade professionals are admitted free of charge. Please register in advance at www.drinkjapan.uk or scan the QR code below. Upon arrival, present your business card to collect your Trade Badge. For those wishing to deepen their knowledge of Japanese food and drink, DRINK JAPAN 2026 offers an excellent opportunity to discover the very best of Japan. Take advantage of this complimentary invitation and join us at DRINK JAPAN. |
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